Lehya (Avaleha) is a semi-solid Ayurvedic formulation made with herbal extracts, jaggery, or honey for easy consumption and efficacy. Definition Lehya (Avaleha) Lehya (also called avaleha or confection) is a semi-solid preparation made by boiling the decoction of herbs with a sweet base (jaggery, sugar, honey) until it achieves a thick, paste-like consistency. Preparation Steps … Read more

Churna is a fine powdered Ayurvedic formulation prepared from dried herbs used for internal and external therapeutic purposes. Definition of Churna Churna (powder) is a fine powder of herbs or a combination of multiple powdered ingredients. Preparation Steps Selection and Cleaning: High-quality, contaminant-free herbs are chosen, then cleaned to remove extraneous matter. Drying: Herbs are … Read more

Ghutika Gutikā are Ayurvedic solid herbal preparations made by mixing powders or extracts with binders for therapeutic use. Definition of Ghutika (Gutikā) Ghutika refers to pills or tablets prepared from one or multiple powdered herbs bound together with a suitable adhesive (e.g., honey, jaggery, gum). Preparation Steps Powdering the Herbs: Each herb is dried and … Read more

Arishtas and Asavas are Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparations made from herbs for enhanced absorption and therapeutic efficacy. Definition of Arishtas and Asavas Arishtas and Asavas are fermented liquid preparations. Asava is generally prepared from fresh herbal juices or watery extracts without boiling. Arishta often starts with a decoction of herbs that is subsequently fermented. General … Read more

Homeopathy is a holistic medical system using highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Origin and Historical Context Founded by Samuel Hahnemann (1755–1843) in Germany, homeopathy gained popularity in India in the early 19th century and is now officially recognized and widely practiced. Basic Principles of Homeopathy Law of Similars (Similia Similibus … Read more

Unani Medicine is a traditional healing system based on humoral theory using natural drugs, diet, and lifestyle for health restoration. Origin and Historical Context Unani medicine, derived from Greek (Ionian) origins, was influenced by Hippocrates, Galen, Arabic, and Persian medical traditions. It was further developed by Islamic scholars like Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and arrived in … Read more

Siddha is a traditional South Indian medical system using herbs, minerals, and lifestyle practices to promote health and longevity. Origin and Historical Context Siddha medicine, prevalent in South India (Tamil Nadu), traces its origins to Siddhars—spiritual healers with deep knowledge of medicine, alchemy, and yoga. Key texts include: Theraiyar Yamakam Agathiyar Gunavakadam Yugimuni Siddha Medicine … Read more

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine focusing on balance of body, mind, and spirit through natural therapies and herbs. Origin and Historical Context Ayurveda, one of the oldest codified medical systems, dates back over 3,000 years. Major texts include: Charaka Samhita – Focuses on internal medicine. Sushruta Samhita – Emphasizes surgery and anatomy. … Read more

Traditional Systems of Medicine include Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and other ancient practices using natural remedies for healing. Traditional Systems of Medicine Traditional medicine includes various holistic healing practices that have been used for centuries. These systems focus on natural remedies, lifestyle balance, and overall well-being. Ayurveda Ancient Indian system based on balancing bodily energies (Vata, … Read more

Processing of herbal raw material in detail covers drying, purification, size reduction, and storage to maintain quality and efficacy. Processing of herbal raw material in detail Once harvested, herbs undergo various processing steps to maintain quality, stability, and therapeutic potential. Harvesting Timing is crucial—phytochemicals peak at specific growth stages (e.g., flowers in early bloom, roots … Read more